FDOT to hold public meetings on I-295 express lanes | News

Title (Max 100 Characters)

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The Florida Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting to discuss a proposal to add express lanes to Interstate 295.

The proposed express lanes would be added to I-295 between I-95 South and the Buckman Bridge, according to a news release from FDOT.

The meeting will take place tonight at the Ramada Conference Center located at 3130 Hartley Road.

It will be an open house format. Those interested can stop by anytime between 4:30 and 6:30 p.m. to look at exhibits and discuss with FDOT staff the proposal.

Public comments will be taken at 6:30 p.m.

The release said express lanes are used to manage traffic congestion and to provide choices for motorists. The additional lanes would provide more capacity to areas with major traffic congestion problems.

FDOT said the first area being considered is on I-295. FDOT said variable toll pricing would be used on the new lanes and the toll will fluctuate depending on demand during peak times. The general use lanes will remain free. The release said all tolling will be electronic using the SunPass prepaid toll program, so no toll booths will be used.

The proposed date to begin construction is in 2014. The release said the FDOT is also considering adding noise barrier walls to the area where the express lanes are added.

More information on the express lanes concept can be found on the FDOT web site www.NorthFloridaExpress.com. The site also has a four minute video.

For more information on the open house you may call the FDOT at 800-749-2967.